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Osaka sign Roma midfielder

J-League club Cerezo Osaka have signed Roma midfielder Simplicio on a free transfer.

The 32-year-old made more than 200 Serie A appearances since joining Parma in 2004.

But his output in Italy has declined recently, resulting in more substitute appearances than starts and just four goals for Roma last season.

Roma cancelled the last year of Simplicio's contract by mutual consent, allowing him to make the move to Japan on an 18-month deal.

The Brazilian's arrival will come as relief for Cerezo, who LACK quality midfielders after the departure of Hiroshi Kiyotake to Nurnberg and South Korea international Kim Bo-Kyung for Cardiff City.

Additionally, the Osaka club are without Olympic call-ups Takihiro Ogihara and Hotaru Yamaguchi.

"I understand that the club is in a tough situation," Simplicio said in a statement.

"And that's why I want to play my best and contribute to Cerezo as quickly as possible."

Cerezo are in 15th place, just two points above the drop zone. Following a two-week pause in league play for the J-League Special Match, they will resume their campaign on Saturday at defending champions Kashiwa Reysol.